Toxic Shock Syndrome

What is Toxic Shock Syndrome?

Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a rare, but serious illness that can often be life-threatening. TSS develops suddenly after certain types of bacteria enter the bloodstream and produce toxins (poisons). It can quickly affect several different organs including your liver, lungs and kidneys. Since TSS develops quickly, emergency medical help is needed as soon as possible.

Although TSS has been linked to tampon use by women, it can occur in children, men and people in all age groups. Only half of the cases of TSS are linked to menstruation.

If you think you have TSS, call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest emergency department right away.

What causes TSS?

TSS is caused by toxins made by some types of bacteria. The 2 bacteria that make toxins that can cause TSS are:

Staphylococcus aureus are found in the nose or on the skin of up to 30 per cent of people. They are also found in the vagina of about 10 to 20 per cent of women. These bacteria are usually not harmful, and only cause mild nose, throat or skin infections.

In some cases, SA infections can result in TSS. SA makes several toxins and when the toxins enter your bloodstream you can have a severe reaction causing TSS. The toxins may enter your bloodstream through a wound to the skin, including a surgical wound. TSS can also occur in menstruating women using tampons or a menstrual cup. Most people, however, are not affected by the toxins because they have developed antibodies to them.

What are the symptoms of TSS?

Symptoms of TSS include flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache and muscle soreness. These symptoms will develop quickly and are severe. Other symptoms may include pain at the site of a wound, vomiting and diarrhea, signs of shock including low blood pressure and light-headedness, shortness of breath and sunburn-like rash.

In general, TSS symptoms can develop as soon as 12 hours after a surgical procedure. Symptoms usually develop in 3 to 5 days in women who are menstruating and using tampons.

If you experience the above symptoms after using tampons or after a surgery or skin injury, contact your health care provider immediately.

What should I do if I think I have TSS?

Toxic shock syndrome requires immediate emergency care in a hospital. Call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest emergency department right away if you think you have TSS.

If you experience any of the symptoms of TSS while using a tampon, remove the tampon and see your health care provider right away. Inform them that you were using a tampon when the symptoms started.

What is the treatment for TSS?

TSS cannot be treated at home. Hospital care is required for treating a staph infection and related complications caused by TSS, such as shock. You will be given antibiotics to kill the bacteria and stop further release of toxins.

If the source of infection involves a tampon, diaphragm or contraceptive sponge, it should be removed as soon as possible.

Who is at risk of TSS?

TSS from a staph infection can affect anyone; however, some people are at greater risk of TSS than others.

Risk factors for TSS include:

Past history of SA toxic shock syndrome.

Prolonged use of a tampon, especially the super absorbent type.

Use of contraceptive sponges, diaphragms or intrauterine devices.

Irritation and inflammation of the vagina, also known as vaginitis.

A burn, skin infection or injury, including a wound from surgery. Those who develop a SA wound infection after surgery may be at greater risk of TSS.

Changing your tampon at least every 8 hours, or use tampons for only part of the day.

Wearing tampons and sanitary pads at alternate times. For example, use pads at night and tampons during the day.

Using tampons with the lowest absorbency that you need. The risk of TSS is higher with super absorbent tampons.

Not leaving your diaphragm or contraceptive sponge in for more than 12 to 18 hours.

Want More Information?

HealthLink BC, your provincial health line, is as close as your phone or the web any time of the day or night, every day of the year.

Call 8-1-1 toll-free in B.C., or for the deaf and hard of hearing, call 7-1-1.

You can speak with a health service navigator, who can also connect you with a:

registered nurse any time, every day of the year;

registered dietitian from 9am to 5pm PT, Monday to Friday;

qualified exercise professional from 9am to 5pm PT, Monday to Friday;

pharmacist from 5pm to 9am PT, every day of the year.

Translation services are available in more than 130 languages.

8-1-1 in 130 Languages

When you dial 8-1-1 (or 7-1-1 for the deaf and hard of hearing), you can request health information services in languages other than English.

Translation services are available in over 130 languages.

After dialing 8-1-1, you will be connected with an English speaking health service navigator. To get service in another language, simply state the language you are looking for (example say “Punjabi”), and an interpreter will join the call.

Is it an emergency?

If you or someone in your care has chest pains, difficulty breathing, or severe bleeding, it could be a life-threatening emergency. Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number immediately.

If you are concerned about a possible poisoning or exposure to a toxic substance, call Poison Control now at 1-800-567-8911.